This week I’m virtually road-tripping around the South with a whole bunch of great bloggers for The Great Southern Road Trip. We will be linking up all sorts of fun southern-inspired posts for y’all to enjoy, sip and savor.
So, grab your cocktail of choice and let me take you on a tour of my favorite beach town, Grand Isle, LA.
Grand Isle is 7 miles of sun, fun, and sand. Louisiana's only inhabited barrier island, Grand Isle is best know as a fisherman's paradise. Surrounded by the Gulf of Mexico and Barataria Bay, Grand Isle is a habitat for crabs, shrimp, and many species of fish.
I have been going to Grand Isle since I was born. Though it does not possess the crystal blue water and white sands of Florida, Grand Isle holds a special place in my heart. The people and the food are outstanding.
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| Ron and Monique, Grand Isle, circa 1974 |
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| Ron & Monique 1974 |
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| Ron 1974 |
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| Monique, Honey, Ron 1976 |
Located just two hours south of New Orleans, take LA 1 for as far south as you can drive.
TO DO:
Beaches
Seven miles of white sand beaches are open to the public via 12 crossovers. Parking is also available.
Butterfly Dome
Featuring native butterflies and plants, the Butterfly Dome offers a glimpse into the habitat of these winged insects. The Dome is maintained through private donations and features guided (advance scheduling required) or self-guided tours.
Monday-Sunday, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.
2757 LA Hwy. 1, Grand Isle, LA 70358
985-787-2229
Grand Isle State Park
At the east end of the island, Grand Isle State Park features pristine beaches, a 400-ft. fishing pier, nature trails and overnight camping.
Admiral Craik Drive, Grand Isle, LA 70358
985-787-2559 or 888-787-2559 toll free
Wake Side Water Park
Wake Side is Louisiana’s first and only salt water cable park. Located at the west end of the island at the foot of the Grand Isle Bridge across LA 1 from Bridge Side Marina. Participants are pulled by rope attached to a cable system that provides a constant pulling speed. The run is about 600 feet long and will include two jumps and a water obstacle. Each ride lasts 10 minutes, which can be up to 5 laps for those that are skilled. The system can tow anything from skis to wakeboards to inner tubes.
For more information:
985-309-6030
Grand Isle Birding Trail
Fishing
With more than 280 species of fish and four seasons of fishing, Grand Isle invites anglers of all ages and skill levels to cast their line in the abundant, surrounding waters.
Whether you are fishing from the beach or pier…brought your own boat or decided to hire an expert charter fishing company…Grand Isle is a fishing paradise.
You can check out the Charter Fishing options HERE.
DINING:
There are several dining options on the island offering locally caught seafood. My favorite happens to be Hurricane Hole. The views from the rear porch are phenomenal.


Bridge Side Marina Deli 1618 Hwy 1, Grand Isle – by the Grand Isle Bridge 985-787-2419 Breakfast and Lunch for your fishing trip. |
Jo Bobs Gas and Grill 3365 Hwy 1 Grand Isle 985-787-3707 the old Conoco Service Station Fried Chicken, Plate Lunches, Pizza and More. Open 7 days a week |
Lighthouse Restaurant 116 Chighizola Lane 985-787-3331 Seafood patters, Prime Steaks, Pasta, Full Bar Open Evenings year round and for Lunch starting in March |
Hurricane Hole 1851 Hwy 1 Grand Isle 985-787-3663 Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday evenings, 4:00 p.m. till 10:00 p.m. |
Starfish Restaurant 3027 Hwy 1 985-787-2711Yums 3059 Hwy 1 (985) 787-2995 Open daily for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinne Fish, Burgers, Shrimp and Oyster Poorboys
STAY: I suggest you rent a camp (beach house) on the water by contacting the camps/rentals HERE.
Grand Isle is a remarkable island filled with many memories. I look forward to making many more.
Check out more about Grand Isle: HERE
THE GREAT SOUTHERN ROAD TRIP ITINERARY
TUESDAY ROUTE:
WEDNESDAY ROUTE:
THURSDAY ROUTE:
FRIDAY ROUTE:
See you in Grand Isle, y'all!
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